The number of flood victims in Sabah increased overnight, with 608 people currently housed in evacuation centres as of 8am on Wednesday.

The State Disaster Management Committee (JPBN) said the number of displaced residents rose from 588 at 11:59pm on Tuesday.

At least 162 families have been forced to leave their homes due to rising floodwaters across affected districts.

Beaufort remains the worst-hit, with 223 evacuees, followed by Kinabatangan (253) and Keningau (132).

Authorities reopened several evacuation centres late Tuesday night as more families sought shelter.

The Dewan Selagon evacuation centre in Beaufort was reactivated at 1pm on Tuesday as flood conditions worsened.

In Kinabatangan, two relief centres at SK Sukau and SK Bukit Garam continue to house evacuees.

JPBN said floodwaters have started to recede in some areas, but the situation remains unpredictable.

At least 76 villages across the affected districts have reported flood damage, with some homes still inundated.

Road access remains cut off in some areas, complicating relief efforts by emergency teams.

There have been no reported fatalities, but authorities are monitoring the situation closely.

JPBN has urged residents in flood-prone areas to remain vigilant and follow evacuation orders if necessary.

Rescue teams from the Civil Defence Force and Fire Department are on standby for emergency evacuations.

Weather conditions remain uncertain, with more rain expected in the coming days, according to meteorologists.

Authorities say the current number of flood victims is expected to fluctuate as assessments continue. – Feb 7, 2025.